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How to get an EU citizenship as an American

How to get an EU citizenship as an American If you want to travel, work, or study in Europe as an American, getting an EU passport could be the solution. There are a few paths to applying for European citizenship. We’re here to help you navigate this complex process! We’ll take a look at how to become an EU citizen, including the best citizenship options and everything you need to know about applying for an EU passport. We’ll also take a look at how Wise can help you spend money in 150+ countries, all at the mid-market exchange rate. wise-accountWhat is a European citizen? An EU citizen is someone who lives or works in a country that’s part of the European Union, such as Austria, Italy, Greece, France, or Spain. EU citizens can enjoy freedom of movement in any EU member state. You can also live or work in any EU country with an EU passport. It’s important to note that not all European countries are part of the EU, such as the UK or Iceland. These countries may have their own requirements for citizenship.Why would Americans want to be EU citizens? As an EU citizen, you’re given the freedom to travel, live, work, or study in any EU country – and you’ll access visa-free travel to over 153 countries. This is appealing to avid travelers or those who want to stay abroad long-term, as you can visit or live in multiple European locations without worrying about visa applications. Some American citizens get EU citizenship to retire in Europe or easily travel between homes in the US and Europe. Many European countries also offer free healthcare systems, which you can access as a citizen of the EU.¹Can you get EU citizenship? It’s possible to become an EU citizen, even if you’re not from the EU. In many countries, you can also hold onto your American passport for dual citizenship. There are many possible routes to getting your EU citizenship. You may be able to get citizenship if your parents — or parent — were born in an EU country or if you’ve been living as a legal resident in Europe for several years. Every EU country will have different processes for non-EU citizens applying for their second passport. However, once you have citizenship in an EU country, you can enjoy freedom of movement in all member states.International money at the tip of your fingers: get the Wise card Get fee free international ATM withdrawals, up to 100 USD/month, with the Wise card. Keep in mind that ATM operators may charge their own fees. Open a Wise Account online or in the Wise app, to hold and exchange 40+ currencies, with the mid-market rate and low fees*. Get cash conveniently around the world, with some fee free withdrawals every month, and low fees of 1.5 USD + 2% after that*. That can work out cheaper than using your bank card for overseas withdrawals.Check out these other handy Wise personal account features: Hold and manage money in 40+ currencies from your phone Send and receive money internationally to 80+ countries with low fees Opt in to receive annual percentage yield (APY) on your USD balance with Wise’s interest feature (subject to change, certain limitations apply — see Program Agreement for more information) Spend in 150+ countries with the Wise card, with transparent and competitive fees Conveniently get instant updates and track transactions on the go with the Wise mobile app Robust security measures and encryption to protect your funds and personal information. How can you get EU citizenship as an American? There are a few ways to get EU citizenship as an American. Let’s explore some of the common options for Americans to become European citizens.Citizenship by descent You can access citizenship by descent (CBD) if you can prove that your ancestors were born in an EU country. This is typically a parent, but you may also need to prove that your grandparents or great-grandparents were born in that country, too. You’ll need to fill out paperwork and provide supporting documents to prove your bloodline. Many EU countries offer citizenship by descent, including Ireland and Greece.Naturalization through residency You can also access your second passport through naturalization. This is when you live and work in an EU country to work toward your citizenship. Typically, Americans apply for visas to become legal residents in an EU country, eventually getting a passport from that country. Every EU country is different, so you’ll need to double-check the requirements and time frame for your naturalization. However, most countries require you to work or live in an EU country for at least 5 years to be eligible.³Citizenship by investment Many countries offer EU residency by investment (RBI) programs. Also known as golden visas, these programs let anyone invest in a country’s economy in exchange for naturalization. It typically takes around 5 years to gain your EU passport by investment. The amount you’ll need to invest – and how long it takes to get a passport – differs depending on the country. In Greece, for example, you’ll need to invest at least 250,000 EUR, but you’ll need to live there for at least 7 years before you can access citizenship.³Citizenship by marriage You can apply for citizenship by marriage by legally marrying someone from an EU country. You’ll also need to fulfill any citizenship requirements for that country, such as living and working there for a certain amount of time. Spain and France let those married to a national apply for EU citizenship – but not all countries allow EU citizenship by marriage.²What’s the best European citizenship to have? Portugal’s Golden Visa Program® is a popular choice for foreign citizens, as you can get residency within 6 months of investing 280,000 EUR in Portuguese real estate. Malta is also a common option, with multiple programs to help new citizens get their EU passports. Many foreigners choose to become Swedish citizens. You can apply for citizenship after being

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A Guide to Renewing Your U.S. Passport

How to Renew Your U.S Passport A valid U.S. passport is essential to traveling internationally and can serve as a legal form of ID within the United States. It’s an official government document that confirms your identity and citizenship. However, your passport has an expiration date. If your passport was issued when you were 16 years old or older, it is valid for 10 years. If your passport was issued when you were 15 years old or younger, it is valid for five years.1 How to Renew Your U.S Passport A good rule of thumb is to make sure your passport will remain valid for six months beyond any planned trip. Using information from the U.S. Department of State website, Travelers has compiled the following guide to help provide many of the key details involved in the passport renewal process. For more information, including the current fees, be sure to visit the U.S. State Department website to help ensure you have the most up-to-date information. Here are some things you need to know about renewing a U.S. passport:Can I renew my passport by mail? One of the most convenient ways to renew your passport is by mail. However, according to the U.S. State Department,2 to renew by mail, all of the following must be true: Your passport is: If all of these statements are true, you can generally use the following steps to renew your passport by mail. If any are not true, you’ll need to apply in person.Steps to renew your passport by mail To renew your passport by mail, follow the five steps listed below. Remember, all information is subject to change, so consult the U.S. State Department passport site for the most up-to-date information. Typically, you’ll need the following documents: You will need to attach a passport photo to the Passport Renewal Form. Be sure to review the photo requirements on the U.S. State Department website. Also, be aware that the U.S. State Department advises that you not wear the following in your photo: You can wear jewelry and keep facial piercings if they don’t hide your face. Permanent tattoos are acceptable for passport purposes. If you need more information, the U.S. State Department offers a comprehensive photo guide with examples of good and bad photos. Make sure you know how much you need to pay for your passport renewal so you can include the correct amount. You can review the current passport fee structure, and the U.S. State Department also offers a fee calculator. Payment must be made using a check or money order payable to “U.S. Department of State,” and you should print your full name and date of birth on the front. Cash and credit cards are not accepted for payment. When you have your materials together, it’s time to mail in your application. Remember to do the following: Depending on the method you use to mail in your passport, you typically should be able to track the envelope to ensure delivery. Once you have confirmed that your application has arrived, you can call 877-487-2778 or request a status update online after 7 to 10 business days.Steps to renew your passport in person If you do not meet the criteria to renew your passport by mail, you’ll need to submit your application in person at an approved passport acceptance facility. Before you arrive to renew your passport in person, you’ll typically need to gather the following documents: How to Renew Your U.S. Passport The process also typically requires that you submit one of the following to prove that you are a U.S. citizen: The document you submit to prove citizenship must be either an original or certified physical copy. A certified copy is any document that has the seal or stamp of the official issuing authority. Digital evidence such as a scan or photo will not be accepted. In addition to the original, bring a photocopy of your proof of citizenship to include with your application. Make sure that the photocopies are legible, printed on white 8.5″x11″ standard paper, black and white, and single-sided. You’ll also need to bring proof of identity. For a complete list of acceptable forms of ID, check the U.S. State Department website. If you can’t provide any of the listed forms of ID, you’ll need to submit at least two of the following: Some states now issue digital ID documents (also known as mobile driver’s licenses or mobile IDs). These digital IDs are not currently acceptable forms of ID when applying for a U.S. passport. If your name has changed, you’ll also need to present any documentation outlining your name change. Don’t forget a photo. It should meet all the criteria listed on the U.S. State Department website. How to Renew Your U.S Passport If any of the following apply to you, you may have additional requirements for your passport application, such as additional documentation or having a parent or guardian present when you apply. Please see the relevant U.S. State Department webpage for more information. Once you have all your documentation, you’ll need to bring everything to your local acceptance facility. Remember that most facilities have set hours, so it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment. For the post office, you can use the online retail customer appointment scheduler or a lobby self-service kiosk. For other facilities, call in advance to make an appointment. In addition to the passport application fee that you need to pay to the U.S. State Department, you’ll need to pay an additional processing fee at the acceptance facility. While the application fee must be paid using a check or money order, you can usually pay the processing fee using a credit card or other payment method accepted by the acceptance facility. How to Renew Your U.S. Passport Remember that fees may be subject to change, so check with your acceptance facility in advance. Once you’ve submitted your application at the acceptance facility, you can request a status update 7 to 10

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DIFFERENT CLASSES OF DRIVER’S LICENSES

Different classes of driver’s licensesWhen you think of a driver’s license, the first thing that may come to mind is the kind of license that lets you drive a standard two- or four-door passenger car. While this certainly is one of the most common licenses out there, it’s far from being the only one. If you’ve ever wondered, “What are the different classes of driver’s license?” Let’s find out. Note that naming conventions and qualification requirements for different classes of driver’s licenses can vary from one state to another. This is a general guide to the different classes, but it’s best to consult with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to get the most accurate information for your state.Standard driver’s license The most common type of driver’s license may just be the one people use to drive their personal vehicles every day, formally known as a Class D license. This license allows drivers to operate vehicles under 26,000 pounds, which covers most passenger cars, and also allows drivers to tow smaller trailers or recreational vehicles, typically under 10,000 pounds. Throughout the United States, a Class D driver’s license can also pull double duty to act as your state ID card, whereas a standalone state ID card only works as identification and doesn’t grant you driving privileges.Commercial driver’s licenses A commercial driver’s license (CDL) is required for drivers who operate large trucks and commercial vehicles. CDLs have significantly more stringent requirements than a Class D license. Applicants must complete rigorous skills tests and have detailed knowledge of various vehicle systems. Renewing a CDL may require additional physical assessments beyond the standard eye exam, and CDLs must be renewed more frequently than a standard license. There are three main types of CDLs:Class A Class A CDLs allow drivers to operate vehicles weighing 26,001 pounds or more and tow over 10,000 pounds. This includes big-rig 18-wheelers and livestock carriers. Class A CDLs also typically allow drivers to operate many Class B and Class C vehicles with the right endorsements (more on that below).Class B Class B CDLs allow drivers to operate single, unhitched vehicles weighing more than 26,000 pounds. This includes vehicles like city buses, dump trucks and box trucks. Class B CDLs also allow drivers to run some Class C vehicles with the right endorsements.Class C Class C CDLs allow drivers to operate vehicles carrying hazardous materials or carrying 15 or more passengers. This includes hazmat vehicles and some buses.Commercial license endorsements Commercial licenses additionally feature endorsements which allow drivers holding a CDL to qualify for additional, specialized vehicle types. These endorsements are typically denoted on the license by a single letter. Some common endorsements include: H – The H endorsement allows drivers to transport hazardous materials. Obtaining an H endorsement requires passing a written test.N – The N endorsement allows drivers to operate vehicles with a tank (to transport liquids or gases). Obtaining an N endorsement requires passing a written test.P – The P endorsement allows drivers to operate passenger vehicles with 15 or more passengers (plus the driver). Obtaining a P endorsement requires passing a written test and a road test.S – The S endorsement allows drivers to operate a school bus. Obtaining an S endorsement requires first obtaining a P endorsement, taking additional tests, paying additional fees and passing a background check.T – The T endorsement allows drivers to operate vehicles towing double or triple trailers. Obtaining a T endorsement requires passing a written test.X – The X endorsement is a combination of the H and N endorsements, allowing drivers to operate tank vehicles carrying hazardous materials. Obtaining an X endorsement requires passing a written test. Other license types In addition to the license types listed above, there are a few other types of licenses you may come across:Taxi or livery service Even in the age of ridesharing, taxis and livery services are still very much a part of city life and operate under what’s formally called a Class E license.Motorcycle Some states require motorcycle operators to carry a separate license type, typically called Class M.Junior Some states require young and inexperienced drivers to have a junior license that has added restrictions such as lower weight limits or driving curfews. These are typically called Class DJ licenses, though some states may also offer a junior motorcycle (MJ) license.In summary There are several types of driver’s licenses. For instance, there are several classes of commercial driver’s licenses for varying weight classes and categories of heavy vehicles. There are also other specialized, non-commercial licenses. The Class D license that many people use to drive their personal car is just the tip of the iceberg. visit our website www.buydocsonline.com to obtain your authentic driver’s license

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OBTAINING A US DRIVER’S LICENSE

How to obtain a US driver’s license for International students and scholars who drive in the U.S. must have a valid driver’s license. Some states require an International Driving Permit (IDP) from foreign nationals, in addition to a valid license from your own country. Check with the motor vehicle department of each state you will drive in for its requirements. A Florida driver’s license or a State of Florida identification card can be obtained at any Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) office. Driver’s licenses are issued for one year at a time, renewable until the end of the student’s program. F-1 students who have completed a course of study or optional practical training can be granted a license for an additional 60-day period to allow them to prepare for departure or to process a transfer. J-1 students and scholars who have completed an exchange visitor program can obtain an additional 30-day period. Dependents of F-1 or J-1 students and scholars (i.e. dependents in F-2 or J-2 status) are allowed the same period of driver’s license validity as the F-1 or J-1 students and scholars. For first-time issuance of a State of Florida driver’s license or identification card, Florida law requires the following items from students in F-1 or J-1 status: 1 Passport; and 2 Proof of non-immigrant classification provided by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (Form I-94); and3 F-1 or J-1 status documentation (Form I-20 or DS-2019); and 4 Two original proofs of residence (cell phone bills, utility bills, official, original transcripts from UM, apartment lease). Students who live on campus will need to obtain proof of residence from the Department of Housing and Residential Life. They should send an e-mail to: housinghelp@miami.edu with a request for “verification of rental history” and the name and address of who it should be addressed to. Also, any official letter, for example a bank letter or letter from UM sent to your on-campus address will suffice as proof of residence. If living with parent, the parent must sign a statement (available at the local DMV office) and provide proof of residence (one in the parent’s name and one in the student’s name); and 5 SSN cards if one has been issued or a letter of ineligibility from the Social Security Administration (SSA) indicating you are not eligible to obtain an SSN. The reason for the ineligibility cannot be because you failed to present the necessary documents. For more information related to Non-Immigrant requirements for obtaining a Social Security Number, please visit Learn what documents you will need to get a Social Security Card. It is recommended that you take your foreign driver’s license, if one has been issued. You may be exempt from the otherwise mandatory drug and alcohol traffic education course, the driving test, or parts of it. Complete information on the required tests and a link to the driver’s manual can be found at https://www.flhsmv.gov/. Private vendors with “Driving Instructor” shirts offer a training of the maneuvers required for the driving test as well as usage of a car for the exam for a fee of about $50. While FLHSMV officers usually recommend their services, these instructors are not affiliated with their office. You should exercise caution if you choose to hire them. There are currently 12 driver’s license offices in Miami-Dade County. The closest location to the University of Miami is approximately 9 miles north of campus: Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Mall of Americas 7795 West Flagler Street, Suite M8 & M9 Miami, FL 33144 Phone: (305) 229-6333 visit our website to www.buydocsonline.com to obtain your US driver’s license. Y oou are strongly advised to make an appointment, if available. To access the most up-to-date information on driver’s license requirements, check the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles website. Click on Service Centers in Miami-Dade County to find a local office. DUI (Driving Under the Influence of Alcoholic Beverages, Chemical Substances or Controlled Substances). s. 316.193, F.S.: Under Florida law, DUI is one offense, proved by impairment of normal faculties or unlawful blood alcohol or breath alcohol level of .08 or above. The penalties upon conviction are the same, regardless of the manner in which the offense is proven. How to obtain a US driver’s license Visa revocation following a DUI: The U.S. Department of State is revoking visa foils (“stamps”) of foreign nationals following a conviction or an arrest for driving under the influence (DUI), driving while intoxicated (DWI), or a related criminal charge. Individuals are notified of their visa cancellation by email (address used on the visa application). An individual in nonimmigrant status whose visa has been prudentially revoked will have to obtain a new visa in order to be readmitted to the United States after temporary travel abroad. In order for the visa to be issued, the foreign national will first need to be cleared by a panel physician following a medical screening, which may result in a visa denial or delay. A student who has their visa revoked should talk to an immigration attorney.

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